Ta Prohm is a temple situated in the Angkor temple complex that was constructed in the Bayon style during the late 12th and early 13th centuries. It can be found approximately 1km east of Angkor Thom on the southern edge of East Baray, near Tonle Bati. Like other temples in the area, Ta Prohm has been abandoned for a long time, and only a single relic remains while other structures have succumbed to natural forces and the passage of time. The most striking feature of the temple is the enormous tree that recalls an ancient image of redwoods and oaks, with its trunk pressed against the walls and its roots clinging to the rock, creating an eerie yet majestic atmosphere. Overall, Ta Prohm exudes an air of mystery that is just waiting to be explored.
Ta Prohm temple was constructed by Khmer King Jayavarman VII with the intention of it being used as a monastery and a Mahayana Buddhist school. As the Khmer Empire declined in the 15th century, the temple was abandoned and left to deteriorate for centuries until today. In the early 20th century, efforts were made to preserve and restore the temples at Angkor, but the ruins of Ta Prohm were left in their original state, as they were deemed too magnificent to be altered. The stunning natural surroundings and visual lighting effects of the temple have made it a popular destination for visitors from around the world. In 1992, Ta Prohm was recognized as a World Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO. The movie Tomb Raider was filmed at Ta Prohm, though scenes were also shot at other Angkor temples. The temple’s mysterious and beautiful appearance has made it a prototype for many films due to its ability to yield high-quality footage.
